Types of Plants Used for an Edible Landscape

Edible landscapes are great ways to rid a section of yard of grass. Grass takes more fertilizer and water than do edible plants and native plants, so it makes good environmental sense to use edible landscaping. Plus, not only does it look nicer than grass, you are able to feed your family using fresh organic foods instead of processed store bought.

Herbs

Herbs are typically aromatic and do well in window boxes, containers or as edging for your garden plot. Picking a fresh sprig of herbs whenever your meal calls for it means never having to run to the store for fresh herbs and spices. Good herbs for an edible landscape include parsley, chives, rosemary and sage. Getting in touch with your local cooperative extension office can help you get in touch with the Master Gardener hotline for more ideas.

Fruits

Fruit trees are another item to use when planting edible landscaping. However, fruit trees do well around porches and patios. Some fruit trees even do well in containers. Strawberries and such do nicely in low containers and window boxes. Remember to ask to see how many trees you may need to ensure fruit; there will need to be some cross-pollination. Start with apples, oranges, lemons, plums and your favorites. It will ensure you have everything your cookbook requires when you go to use them.

Vegetables

This is usually the main form of edible gardening that people think of when it comes time to plant. Choosing tomatoes, potatoes, greens, beans, lettuce and such will always ensure you have great side dishes to the family meal. Fresh vegetables have a greater flavor, and just a few plants make enough not only to eat in season, but also to can or store for winter months as well. For those that do not like to plant every season, check out the perennial varieties of food that will keep producing year after year.

Edible landscaping is a great way to help lower your family’s food bill and give them foods that are more nutritious. It will be great from an environmental aspect in that you are requiring less maintenance and resources to keep a lawn alive. In addition, it is something that you can get your whole family involved in from planting, to picking, to eating.